Everyone is looking forward to the long weekend, celebrating Our Nation’s Independence Day on July 4th. It’s a great time to spend time with friends and family, whether you’re headed to the beach or an outdoor cookout. Please remember these safety tips and have a great Fourth of July.

On the highway:

Buckle seat belts, observe speed limits.

Do not drink and drive.

Pay full attention to the road – don’t use a cell phone to call or text.

When grilling:

Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use.

Never grill indoors – not in the house, camper, tent, or any enclosed area.

Make sure everyone, including the pets, stays away from the grill.

Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, the deck, tree branches, or anything that could catch fire.

Use the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill to keep the chef safe.

When using fireworks:

Never give fireworks to small children, and always follow the instructions on the packaging.

Keep a supply of water close by as a precaution.

Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection.

Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight “a dud.”

Never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials.